2 juveniles suspected of throwing rocks at CHP during downtown LA protest

Two juveniles were taken into custody in connection with an assault on a California Highway Patrol officer during a weekend immigration raid protest in downtown Los Angeles, authorities announced Friday.

Special Response Team officers responded to reports of more than 1,000 demonstrators entering the 101 Freeway on June 8 and blocking several lanes of traffic, according to the CHP.

CHP officials said that while officers were attempting to clear the freeway, two juvenile suspects threw multiple rocks at law enforcement from an overpass.

“A rock thrown by one of the juvenile suspects struck a CHP officer in the head with such force that it dislodged the officer’s helmet and gas mask,” according to a statement from the CHP.

The CHP’s Southern Division Major Crimes Unit took over the investigation and worked around the clock to identify and locate the two suspects, the agency said. Their identities have not been released due to their age.

“To those who choose to exploit public demonstrations to incite violence, attack officers, or create chaos — know this: we are coming for you,” said CHP Southern Division Chief Chris Margaris.

“Your actions will not go unanswered,” he added.

The suspects were taken into custody Thursday evening with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service, the CHP stated. One was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder of a peace officer, and the other on assault with a deadly weapon on a peace officer, according to the agency.

Detectives plan to present the case to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office for potential formal filing once the investigation is completed, according to the CHP.

Anyone with information about this case was urged to contact the CHP Major Crimes tip line at 323-259-3200.